I played chess for years growing up, and was almost my state high school champion. I lost to Yasser Seirawan back then, before he was as famous as he is now. I haven't played seriously in over 20 years, but am enjoying rediscovering the game.

I have gotten some questions about my 1700 OTB rating. That was from about 1982. A lot has happened since then. By the way, my old "postal" rating with USCF is 2000 from about 1990. I find having the time to analyze things, and to "play them out" on an analysis board, and to look at explorer and in books is very helpful. In addition, playing 3 consecutive tournaments on both white and black on my favorite openings allows a lot of refinement and learning to take place.

But if you are playing me, hang in there: I often play on my PDA at work and on airplanes, and tend to give away my queen when I do...

I am also working on and have completed a chess analysis aid, CHESScribe. It can be used to record games and options, including your analysis of posistions. This is particularly helpful when you have days in-between moves and have trouble (as I do) remembering what you figured out days before. I hope to make it available shortly. See www.chesscribe.com for information about it!!!

DavidAllen